Farm gate opens on Sunday

UDDER FUN: Evelingi Pearson, 9, tries her hand at milking at last year's Farm Day. PHOTO/GEORGE NOVAK

Bay of Plenty Federated Farmers is the only province in New Zealand which holds a Farm Day event.

This year's Farm Day will be held on March 18 at McLeod's property located at 1189 Welcome Bay Road. It's the first farm on the right hand side of Welcome Bay Rd when approaching from Te Puke Highway.

Past Farm Days have attracted people from all walks of life, as well as many overseas tourists, enjoying the 'town meets the country' event, with positive feedback and big crowds ensuring it continues.

Not only is the day free, it helps people learn about how farms are run, where their milk comes from and various other projects relating to farming.

''The rural sector is the base of the New Zealand economy and it is important that everyone has an insight into the industry and its workings,'' says farm day co-ordinator Steve Bailey.

''Farm Day is run to encourage a larger scale of interest into agriculture from future generations.''

Farm Day has volunteers and businesses providing information, activities and some static displays which include shearing and drafting sheep, working dogs in action, milking cows, feed supplies, fertiliser trucks, a range of farm animals, calves, a milk tanker and tractors.

There will also be lolly scrambles in a hay stack for children, plus on entry, children aged up to 12 years can pick up a colouring competition form to enter and be in to win a Warehouse voucher.

Fonterra will have some free drinks onsite, and other organisations such as DairyNZ, Te Puke Young Farmers Club, local farmers and shearers, will also be there to answer questions.

Rosie the cow will be on the farm for those who want photos and to receive a bag full of useful information.

''This is a great day for all, and an experience in a lifetime for some,'' says Steve.

The day is sponsored by DairyNZ and Beef+Lamb.